Alleged thief caught
A “PROLIFIC” alleged property offender who police had been pursuing for days landed in their laps after eagle-eyed detectives spotted him in the back of a taxi.
Twenty-year-old Innisfail man Roderick Pettit had allegedly been on a two-week crime spree breaking into homes and cars in the East Innisfail and South Johnstone areas, targeting wallets and credit cards which he allegedly used to buy alcohol and cigarettes.
Innisfail detectives spent Tuesday trying to track him down at various residences, but it was not until a taxi pulled in front of them as they drove along Mary St that they got lucky.
Innisfail police detective Sergeant Steve Bull said Mr Pettit was arrested then and there, and had been charged with 38 offences, including multiple counts of burglary and fraud.
Sgt Bull said it was alleged Mr Pettit targeted unlocked homes and vehicles, including while residents were inside asleep.
He said the incident should act as a warning to residents to make sure their properties were secured.
“This type of offending has a big impact on small communities,” Sgt Bull said.
“We would just urge people to lock up their homes and vehicles and if crime occurs, please don’t just post it on social media, call police.
“Also look out for your neighbours and report anything suspicious.”
Sgt Bull said the alleged offending period ran from April 11 to Tuesday, the day Mr Pettit was arrested.
Two of the vehicles allegedly broken into were on the Esplanade and Agnes St – both in East Innisfail – during the weekend.
Police have alleged Mr Pettit used stolen credit cards at several local businesses in the past few days.
Mr Pettit appeared in the Innisfail Magistrates Court yesterday charged with 28 counts of fraud, four counts of breach of bail condition and two counts of enter premises and commit indictable offence.
He was remanded in custody with the case adjourned until May 18.